spolia opima
[ spoh-lee-uhoh-pahy-muh, -pee-; Latin spaw-li-ah aw-pee-mah ]
plural noun
(in ancient Rome) the arms taken by a victorious general from the leader of a defeated army.
Origin of spolia opima
1From Latin spolia opīma “rich spoils”
Words Nearby spolia opima
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use spolia opima in a sentence
Cornelius Cossus, having killed Tolumnius, king of the Veientes, offers the second spolia opima.
The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 | Titus LiviusBy far the most remarkable object in the triumph was Cossus, bearing the spolia opima of the king he had slain.
The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 | Titus LiviusHe knew, as all these others knew and as all the world knows, that a beautiful woman is above all things spolia opima of war.
The Covered Wagon | Emerson HoughTo him the richest spoils of war (spolia opima) were due, and to him the conqueror gave thanks on his return from battle.
The Religion of Numa | Jesse Benedict CarterThe spoils were called spolia opima, according to Varro, because opim means excellence.
Plutarch's Lives, Volume I (of 4) | Plutarch
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